ritalin for depression?

Posted by josh on August 08, 1999 at 16:29:54
i have recently been prescribed ritalin for add in addition to luvox, as i have been suffering clinical depression for years..my practitioner claims my depression is more than likely attributable to my lack of attention and the anxiety i feel as a result of this.  i was wondering if anyone can tell me how effective dopaminergic agonists are for depression and/or anxiety..is this the right next step for someone as hyperactive and resultingly dysthemic as myself? i have had success with ssri's but, unfortunately my already fragmented attention span has gone out the window.  any suggestions?

Posted by HFHS M.D.-SW on August 11, 1999 at 17:38:04
Dear Josh,
      
        As you mentioned some symptoms of depression and ADD/ADHD overlap,i.e., poor concentration and anxiety.  Some patients may suffer from both depression and ADD/ADHD.  Psychiatrists usually treat the depression first, than ADD if symptoms are present.
Ritalin may be used for a short period at low doses for depression
if symptoms are severe, until an antidepressant takes effect.
It is important to follow up with your psychiatrist in order to address you concerns.
This reply is provided as general information. Always contact your physician.
Sincerely,
       HFHS M.D.-SW
*Keywords: Ritalin, Depression, Attention Deficit Disorder